28/03/2026
Caring for someone with dementia can bring feelings of grief long before any goodbye.
You might find yourself imagining the changes ahead - the shifts in communication, memories, and future plans. This is known as anticipatory grief.
When linked to dementia specifically, it can feel like you’re losing parts of the relationship even while the person is still here.
For many carers, this grief can be as challenging, or even harder, than the grief that comes after loss.
While planning ahead matters, try to also hold onto the moments you have right now.
Reaching out for support and sharing how you feel with others can be helpful.
[Image description: A plain blue graphic with white and yellow text reads: 'You or the person with dementia may feel grief when thinking about how their dementia might develop. This is called anticipatory grief.']
